Georgia Religious Liberty Bill Could Jeopardize Atlanta Super Bowl

Georgia could lose the right to host the Super Bowl if lawmakers in The Peach State enact a controversial new bill, CBS Sports reports.

The legislation, which passed the Georgia Senate last week and needs only Gov. Nathan Deal's signature to become law would give pastors the right to refuse to perform same-sex weddings.

The law would additionally give faith-based organizations the option of refusing services to anyone they deem "objectionable."

All of which flies in the face of standards set up by the National Football League.

"NFL policies emphasize tolerance and inclusiveness, and prohibit discrimination based on age, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, or any other improper standard," the NFL said in a statement to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

"Whether the laws and regulations of a state and local community are consistent with these policies would be one of many factors NFL owners may use to evaluate potential Super Bowl host sites."

Atlanta Falcons owner Arthur Blank said he opposes the law because, "One of my bedrock values is 'Include Everyone' and it's a principle we embrace and strive to live each and every day …

["The bill] undermines these principles and would have long-lasting negative impact on our state and the people of Georgia."

Atlanta business owners are also against the bill.

Deal has remained mum on whether he plans to sign, telling reporters he has to make stating a "difficult decision on a very difficult subject."
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